- 1). Possess the necessary skills for the profession. Demonstrate persistence, creativity and good communication skills to succeed as an interior designer. Learn basic business skills, including sales and marketing, if you wish to open your own interior design firm.
- 2). Attend and complete an accredited interior design program. Seek out an accredited postsecondary interior design program from a college or design school. Contact the National Association of Schools of Art and Design or the Council for Interior Design Accreditation to find an accredited interior design program. Complete the necessary coursework for graduation. Graduate with an associate degree or bachelor's degree depending on your chosen program and career objectives. Keep future licensing requirements in mind when deciding to complete a postsecondary educational program. Understand that while talented and self-taught individuals may enter the profession directly through an apprenticeship or mentoring program, a minimum of two years of postsecondary education is a requirement to sit for the interior design licensing exam.
- 3). Enter an apprenticeship program or seek an internship. Speak to a representative of your school's career center to inquire about entering an apprenticeship or internship with an interior design professional. Take the opportunity to gain valuable experience from an interior design professional by working alongside them and learning the ins and outs of the profession.
- 4). Obtain a license. Meet initial qualifications to sit for the licensing exam. Complete a minimum six years of combined education and interior design experience. Contact the National Council for Interior Design Qualification to register for the interior design licensing exam.
- 5). Participate in additional training and certification opportunities. Keep your interior design license current by participating in continuing education classes, seminars and training opportunities. Obtain additional certifications, such as those related to kitchen and bath design, to gain further experience and training in specific areas of interior design.
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